To answer this question we must keep in mind the nature of man's
religious powers, and from this deduce the nature of the supply that is
called for. Would the simple idea of the existence of a first cause, or
creator of all things, be sufficient? This idea, by itself, could not
quicken reverence and adoration and a desire to worship, and without
these there is no religion. Would a knowledge, by revelation, of the
power, intelligence, wisdom and goodness of God be sufficient in the
absence of anything more? No. What more? Would it not be enough, in
addition to what you have named, to have a knowledge of our relation to
and dependence upon him for all we enjoy? No; we must have one thing
more shown to us or the whole will be imperfect and unworthy of God as
its author. Religion can not be without something to do, and that
something must be done upon or by the authority of its author. Add this
to all the other items and the system is complete, meeting perfectly the
necessities of man's nature.